Mexico National Team Targeted in Theft Incident During Pre-Match Preparations in the US

The Mexican National Team has had a successful 2025, winning both the CONCACAF Nations League and the Gold Cup. While preparing for two international friendlies during their U.S. tour, they encountered an unexpected issue.

As reported by ESPN, the team was targeted in Oakland, where they are scheduled to play Japan in their first friendly. Unknown individuals broke into one of the team’s transport vehicles and stole a trunk belonging to the equipment staff.

The stolen container included training gear, but no players or staff were directly harmed as the incident occurred while the vehicle was parked in the early hours.

Head coach Javier Aguirre is using the FIFA window to prepare for the 2026 World Cup. Mexico is already qualified as a co-host with the United States and Canada, avoiding the usual qualifying process.

What’s next for Mexico?

Despite their strong start to the season, Mexico’s main focus is on performing well in the 2026 World Cup. The team needs to fine-tune its performance to reach its best.

Mexico’s first friendly is on Saturday, September 6, against Japan at the Oakland Coliseum, followed by another match against South Korea on Tuesday, September 9, at Geodis Park.

Reports also suggest that Mexico has scheduled two more friendlies in October: against Colombia in Dallas and against Ecuador in Guadalajara. In November, the federation aims to host two additional home matches, one likely against Uruguay.

Gianni Taina is a bilingual journalist, fluent in English and Spanish, covering soccer, the NBA, and tennis. He began his career in 2020 with Mundo Deportivo US and has reported on events like the FIFA World Cup, NBA Finals, and Grand Slams. Gianni joined Bolavip US in 2024, continuing to cover a variety of sports, including European soccer, MLS, and the NBA.